Arsenal are currently top of the Premier League, but most of the team is away on international duty. However, star winger Bukayo Saka has admitted a worrying injury after impressing for England.
Most of Mikel Arteta’s first-team players are currently representing their respective countries, and Saka is no exception. The 24-year-old suffered a hamstring problem earlier this season, but made a triumphant return against West Ham last weekend. Saka scored from the penalty spot as the Gunners beat the Hammers and hit the net with a stunning effort in Thursday’s match between England and Wales. Saka has provided a revealing update on his fitness despite enjoying a stellar performance under manager Thomas Tuchel. Express Sport recaps the latest developments at Emirates, including a supporter-led appeal and a young defender’s title declaration.
Saka admits injury
Saka produced a brilliant first-half performance, scoring brilliantly and proving to be a constant threat to Wales’ back line. However, in his speech after the friendly, he made a worrying confession about his fitness level.
Saka’s hamstring problem caused him to miss five games for both club and country. Speaking after the game against Wales, he said: “I got injured right after the season started and it almost killed me.”
Saka also admitted that he is not yet at peak sharpness. He could feature again when the Three Lions play Latvia on Tuesday and is expected to start Arsenal’s next game against Fulham.
He added, “I’m not at my best yet. But I’m starting to feel better again and I’ve scored goals in the last three games, so I’m happy with that and I want to continue like this.”
Emirates’ plans revealed, fans want answers
The Gunners are considering ambitious plans to expand Emirates’ capacity. The proposals include upgrading the ground’s interior while increasing capacity from 60,700 to 70,000.
A temporary move to Wembley has been linked, but the Arsenal Supporters Trust is calling on the club to engage in dialogue with fans about any changes. They also want consideration for local communities in north London.
A statement read: “Arsenal are right to consider all options. There is a huge demand to watch the team play every week and we should always consult with our fans on any firm plans.”
“We would like to remind clubs of their important role as community institutions and emphasize that if we change the layout of our stadium, we must ensure that we do not lose the space allocated to the general admission ticket price.”
Mosquera’s confidence in title
Young Spanish centre-back Cristian Mosquera joined the Emirates team from Valencia this summer for a fee of £13 million. Although his appearance was limited due to the presence of William Saliba and Gabriel, he opened up about his early experiences as an Arsenal player, telling AS:
“I’m adapting well to that direct style of play. Arteta always asks me after games if I’m tired, but I feel really good. I grew up with the La Liga style and people always said my style of play is suitable for the Premier League and I think they were right.”
The 21-year-old also touched on the team’s title chances, adding: “Yes, we are mindful of challenging everything. We have a very good team and we have the ability.”
